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State of the Union is a 1948 political drama film starring Spencer Tracy, Katharine Hepburn, and Van Johnson. It is directed by Frank Capra, who won three Oscars for Best Director for his previous works. The film is based on the Pulitzer Prize-winning play of the same name by Howard Lindsay and Russel Crouse. The movie follows the story of Grant Matthews (Spencer Tracy), a successful businessman who has never been involved in politics. However, he is approached by a group of influential politicians who are convinced that he is the best candidate to run for President. Initially hesitant, Grant is eventually persuaded to run for office, and he agrees to do so with the help of his longtime partner, Mary Matthews (Katharine Hepburn).

As Grant embarks on his political campaign, he is faced with a number of challenges and obstacles. He struggles to win over the voters, especially those who are against his business background. Grant must also navigate through the political landscape, dealing with backroom deals and political scandals. His integrity and belief in doing what is right are put to the test.

Throughout the film, the complex relationship between Grant and Mary is also explored. They are both strong-willed and driven individuals, and their love for each other is tested as they work together towards achieving their individual goals.

The film addresses important themes of American politics, such as the role of money in elections, the corrupting influence of power, and the importance of maintaining morality and ethics in government. The story reflects the concerns of the post-war era in which it was made, as people were reassessing their values and beliefs after the devastating effects of World War II.

The performances of the cast are outstanding, with Tracy and Hepburn delivering strong and nuanced performances. Their chemistry on-screen is palpable, and their scenes together are a highlight of the film. Van Johnson also delivers a noteworthy performance as Spike McManus, Grant's campaign manager.

Frank Capra's direction is also notable, as he brings a sense of optimism and idealism to the story, despite its dark themes. He effectively uses the camera to create impactful shots and dynamic scenes, such as the iconic speech that Grant delivers in front of a large crowd.

Overall, State of the Union is a powerful and thought-provoking film that explores the many challenges and complexities of American politics. Its themes and subject matter are as relevant today as they were when the film was first released, making it a timeless classic.

State of the Union is a 1948 comedy with a runtime of 2 hours and 2 minutes. It has received mostly positive reviews from critics and viewers, who have given it an IMDb score of 7.2.